countyscore
41.7
County Score
Health 92.2Income & Jobs 83.7Soil Quality 67.1

County Report Card

About Washington County, Vermont

Mixed Results Compared to National Trends

Washington County scores a 41.7 overall, placing it nearly 9 points below the national median of 50.0. Despite high individual category scores, the overall index is weighed down by cost and infrastructure.

Competing Near the State Average

Its score of 41.7 is just shy of the Vermont average of 44.6. As a central hub, it provides a standard Vermont living experience with high earning potential.

High Earnings and Excellent Health Care

The county excels with a 92.2 Health Score and an 83.7 Income Score. This is supported by a strong median household income of $79,853, the highest in this group.

Cost Barriers and Aging Infrastructure

A very low Water Score of 19.4 and a Tax Score of 4.4 represent significant hurdles. Cost of living is also high, as evidenced by a 15.2 Cost Score and $293,900 median home values.

The Professional Hub for Health Seekers

Washington County is ideal for high-earning professionals who want top-tier healthcare and are comfortable paying a premium in taxes. It is best suited for those who prioritize income and wellness over utility scores.

204060801004.415.23892.256.383.747.819.449Tax4.4Cost15.2Safety38Health92.2Schools56.3Income83.7Risk47.8Water19.4Weather4941.7/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

Washington County DNA

Foverall

How Washington County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Washington County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (92.2/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (4.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
4.4-47.6
Cost
15.2-32.8
Safety
38-17
Health
92.2+42.2
Schools
56.3
Income
83.7+32.7
Risk
47.8
Water
19.4-38.6
Weather
49
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Many homeowners in Washington County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$293,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,094/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$293,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$43,760/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $79,853/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

28.4

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

White County
Arkansas
Median income: $53,435
41.7
Tuolumne County
California
Median income: $72,259
41.7
Lanier County
Georgia
Median income: $44,361
41.7
Ogemaw County
Michigan
Median income: $51,983
41.7
Blue Earth County
Minnesota
Median income: $72,623
41.7
Gloucester County
New Jersey
Median income: $102,807
41.7
Lorain County
Ohio
Median income: $70,693
41.7
Pickaway County
Ohio
Median income: $72,927
41.7

Nearby counties

Orange County
Vermont
53.3
Lamoille County
Vermont
47.7
Chittenden County
Vermont
36.9
Caledonia County
Vermont
41.9
Addison County
Vermont
53.8
Franklin County
Vermont
44
Orleans County
Vermont
43
Grafton County
New Hampshire
44.5

Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington County taxes rank among highest

Washington County's 1.868% effective tax rate is more than double the national median of 0.76%, placing it in the top tier of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median annual tax of $5,491 exceeds the national median by 104%, driven by both high rates and above-average home values of $293,900.

Washington near top of Vermont ranks

Washington County ranks third highest among Vermont's 14 counties at 1.868%, exceeding the state average of 1.718% by 0.150 percentage points. Its median tax of $5,491 is the second-highest in Vermont, reflecting both elevated rates and the county's status as home to Vermont's capital region.

Washington leads its regional peers

Washington County's 1.868% rate tops Orange County (1.753%) and Rutland County (1.858%), though it trails Windsor County (1.975%) to the east. Among central Vermont options, Washington demands the highest tax commitment relative to its immediate neighbors.

Washington homeowners pay $5,491 yearly

On Washington County's median home value of $293,900, the typical resident pays about $5,491 in annual property taxes. That's approximately $458 per month—among the steepest tax burdens in Vermont.

Assessment review could save hundreds

Washington County homeowners facing high tax bills should request their town assessor review their property valuation against recent market sales. If your home was overassessed, appealing now could recover significant money before your next reassessment cycle.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington County leads in income, not rent relief

Washington County has the highest median household income in Vermont at $79,853, edging the national median by $5,100. Yet renters spend 16.4% of income on housing—the state's best rate—demonstrating that strong earnings here translate into genuine affordability rather than inflated rent.

Vermont's affordability leader

Washington County boasts both the state's highest median income and the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio at 16.4%, beaten only by Orleans County. This combination positions it as the most balanced county for households seeking both earning potential and housing comfort.

Highest rents, offset by highest incomes

Washington's $1,094 median rent is the state's highest, and homeowners here face steep $1,470 monthly costs—the priciest in Vermont. However, the median home value of $293,900 and strong incomes justify these costs for buyers seeking investment-grade properties.

Premium housing on premium incomes

Renters allocate $1,094 monthly from a $79,853 income, consuming just 16.4%—the state's best ratio—while homeowners spend $1,470, or roughly 22% of earnings. This leaves Washington County households with the most discretionary income of any Vermont county.

For those who can afford premium prices

Washington County is Vermont's prosperity pocket: if you have strong earning power or remote income, you'll find quality housing stock and the state's best affordability safety net. Move here for mountain scenery, cultural assets, and the financial breathing room that comes with higher incomes.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County leads Vermont and the nation

Washington County's median household income of $79,853 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $5,098, ranking among the strongest-earning counties in the country. This income advantage reflects robust earning power and a healthy economic base.

Vermont's highest-earning county

Washington County tops all Vermont counties with a median income $4,810 above the state average of $75,043. The county's per capita income of $45,017 is also the state's highest, indicating broadly shared prosperity.

Outearns all Vermont peers by significant margins

Washington County households earn $79,853 compared to $75,247 in Windsor, $77,328 in Orange, and just $64,778 in Rutland—a $15,075 advantage over Rutland alone. This income leadership reflects Washington's stronger labor market and higher-wage employers.

Strong income supports higher housing costs

Washington County's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio is among Vermont's best, and the median home value of $293,900 is the state's highest. Despite pricier housing, strong incomes make both renting and homeownership feasible for median earners here.

Washington leads the way in wealth building

With the state's highest incomes and manageable housing costs, Washington County residents have the strongest foundation to save, invest, and build generational wealth. Strategic planning around retirement, education funding, and real estate can amplify this economic advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Solid Safety Performance in Central Vermont

Washington County holds a safety score of 97.8, reflecting a total crime rate of 1,422.1 per 100,000 residents. This rate is nearly 40% lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Matching the Vermont State Average

The county's safety score of 97.8 perfectly mirrors the Vermont state average. Fourteen different reporting agencies contribute to this data, the highest number of reporting bodies in this group.

Mid-Range Crime Levels for the Area

Washington County's rate of 1,422.1 is higher than Windsor (1,277.8) but far lower than Rutland (2,502.2). It occupies a middle ground in terms of public safety compared to its neighbors.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crimes

The county reports 227.5 violent crimes and 1,194.6 property crimes per 100,000 people. While violent crime is slightly above the state average, it remains well below national levels.

Smart Steps for Neighborhood Safety

Most local incidents involve property, making home security systems a wise investment. Staying connected with neighbors and using smart locks can significantly reduce your risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

Capital Region Education Excellence

Washington County serves 7,732 students through 25 public schools, including 16 elementary and 5 high schools. Seven districts oversee this high-capacity system, which maintains the highest enrollment among neighboring counties.

Top-Tier Funding and High Graduation

The county leads the region with a school score of 62.4 and a graduation rate of 82.8%. Spending is robust at $12,845 per pupil, nearly matching the national average and exceeding the state average of $11,012.

Leading Districts and Large Campuses

Harwood Unified Union School District #60 is the largest, supporting 1,818 students. Barre Town Elementary & Middle School is a major regional hub, serving 800 students in a single facility.

Vibrant Schools with Town Energy

While 17 schools are rural, 8 are located in bustling town centers, giving the county a more active feel than its neighbors. Average school size is 309 students, the largest in the region, providing diverse extracurricular opportunities.

Relocate Near High-Performing Schools

With some of the state's best-funded districts, Washington County is a premier destination for education-focused families. Start your home search here to benefit from the area's strong academic reputation.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington County's elevated disaster risks

Washington County's composite risk score of 52.23 and "Relatively Low" rating exceed the national average, indicating above-typical exposure to natural hazards. The county's central Vermont location exposes it to flooding, hurricanes, and moderate earthquake risk.

Third-riskiest county in Vermont

Washington County's 52.23 score ranks it 43% above Vermont's state average of 36.44 and third-highest in statewide risk. Only Windham (56.93) and Windsor (61.58) counties carry greater composite disaster exposure in Vermont.

Notably riskier than northern counties

Washington County faces substantially higher risk than Orange County (26.43) and Orleans County (36.83), though it ranks slightly below Rutland County (50.48). Southern neighbors Windham and Windsor counties both present higher risk profiles, making Washington a moderate-hazard transitional zone.

Flooding emerges as primary threat

Flood risk (70.90) dominates Washington County's hazard landscape, with hurricane risk (67.33) and earthquake risk (52.42) forming a secondary tier of concern. Tornado risk (13.93) and wildfire risk (19.12) remain comparatively manageable in this central Vermont region.

Prioritize flood and wind insurance

Washington County residents must secure standalone flood insurance and comprehensive hurricane coverage, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Properties in or near flood-prone areas warrant elevation assessments and water-resistant construction improvements to minimize disaster financial impact.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Washington County

via WaterByCounty

Critical Gaps in Drinking Water Compliance

Washington County earns a Water Quality Grade of F with 67 health violations recorded in five years. Its violation rate of 137.0 per 100,000 residents is more than triple the Vermont average of 43.2.

Watershed Health Data Currently N/A

The federal government has not yet issued §303(d) assessments for water bodies in Washington County. No impairment statistics are currently available through the EPA ATTAINS portal.

Significant Monitoring Focus on Inorganic Metals

Local agencies have conducted 10,025 measurements across 103 monitoring sites since 2019. Testing is concentrated on nutrients, physical characteristics, and inorganic metal groups.

Winooski River Flow Slightly Above Average

At Montpelier, the Winooski River is flowing at 751 cfs, which is 119% of its seasonal mean. This current discharge exceeds the long-term typical flow of 630 cfs.

Heightened Vigilance Required for Tap Water

The exceptionally high violation rate in Washington County makes regular water testing essential for homeowners. Residents should use certified filters and stay alert to all public notices from local water systems.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

Extreme Snowfall in a Chilly Climate

Washington County averages 43.2°F annually, sitting well below the national median of 54°F. It is characterized by high-elevation weather patterns and heavy precipitation. The county is a quintessential example of the rugged, snowy New England interior.

Vermont's High-Elevation Snow Leader

The county's average temperature of 43.2°F is very close to the state average of 43.6°F. However, it stands out with a massive 106.4 inches of annual snowfall, far exceeding many neighboring counties. Its 43.7 inches of annual precipitation aligns with the statewide average of 44.2 inches.

Snowier than Rutland and Orange

Washington County is significantly snowier than Rutland County (79.0 inches) and Orange County (92.9 inches). While its average temperature is similar to Orange, the topography drives much higher snow accumulations. This makes it a hub for winter sports and snow management.

Heavy Snow and Frequent Heat Days

Winter dominates the year with 106.4 inches of snow and a January average of 16.5°F. Surprisingly, it sees more extreme heat than its northern neighbors, recording 6 days per year above 90°F. July is generally pleasant with an average temperature of 67.7°F.

Plan for Major Snow Removal

Homeowners must have a serious snow removal plan to handle over 100 inches of annual accumulation. The 6 days of extreme heat suggest that while rare, some air conditioning is beneficial for summer comfort. Roof rakes and winterized vehicles are essential gear for this high-snowfall region.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

Highland Acidity and Rich Earth

Washington County has an average pH of 4.53, reflecting the significant acidity found throughout central Vermont. This is nearly two points lower than the national median of 6.5, which impacts how minerals move through the soil. Understanding this acidic baseline is key for any successful land management here.

Gritty Textures and Low Clay

With 42.0% sand and 24.9% silt, the soil is notably gritty and well-aerated. The low clay content of 5.5% ensures that the ground doesn't become overly compacted or heavy. This texture is ideal for root crops that need space to expand without resistance.

Top-Tier Organic Content

Washington County leads with a massive 46.42% organic matter, far surpassing the state average of 29.01%. This results in a superior water capacity of 0.304 in/in, which is much higher than the state average. These soils are incredibly resilient to drought because they store water so effectively.

Resilient Water Management

Official drainage data is unavailable, but the high organic matter creates a sponge-like effect in the landscape. This likely buffers the county against both erosion and rapid runoff during Vermont's intense spring thaws. Gardeners will find the soil stays moist longer than in sandier, lower-organic regions.

Thriving in Zone 5a

In hardiness zone 5a, residents can grow a diverse array of cool-season vegetables and berries. The impressive soil score of 67.1 suggests that the land is highly productive when matched with the right plants. Consider starting an orchard or a berry patch to take advantage of these fertile conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Uphill Battles in Central Vermont

Washington County's lawn difficulty score of 47.3 reflects a climate that is tougher on grass than the national median. This Zone 5a region requires careful attention to soil health and weather patterns to sustain a lush green space.

Higher Heat and Steady Rain

The county experiences 6 extreme heat days per year, which is higher than the state average of 4. While 43.7 inches of rain provides good hydration, the 1,974 growing degree days mean mower blades will stay busy throughout the summer.

Managing Nutrient-Poor Soil

A very low soil pH of 4.53 indicates a high risk of nutrient lockout for standard turf. With 42.0% sand, homeowners should supplement their lawn with organic matter to improve the soil's water-holding capacity.

Navigating Moderate Drought Stress

Over the past year, the county has spent 30 weeks in drought, and 58.1% of the land is currently abnormally dry. Maintaining a higher mowing height of 3 to 4 inches can help shade the soil and reduce evaporation during these dry periods.

Spring Start for Zone 5a

Seed your lawn with cold-tolerant species after the last spring frost on May 16th for the best results. You have until the first frost on September 29th to establish a strong root system for the winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Vermont has a composite county score of 41.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Washington County rank among counties in Vermont?
Washington County ranks #10 among all counties in Vermont on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Washington County, Vermont?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $5,491, with an effective tax rate of 1.87%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 4.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Vermont is $79,853 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 83.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Vermont a good place to live?
Washington County scores 41.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Vermont. The best way to evaluate Washington County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Washington County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.